With an internal push for the removal of DA leader Mmusi Maimane, Zille’s victory is viewed as a serious blow for Maimane. Zille was among those who were critical of Maimane’s leadership.

Ahead of the meeting, Zille had undertaken to return the party to its original roots if she were elected. She questioned the party’s direction under Maimane.

Trollip, who is also the federal chairperson of the DA, was seen as the only ally of Maimane among the contenders for the post, which is seen as equal to being the defacto chief executive of the party.